Epping Hot Bread Kitchen

Epping Hot Bread Kitchen is the kind of bakery in Epping, Victoria that people mention first for its banh mi. Locals reckon the Vietnamese rolls here are among the best in the area, and the pork belly and crispy pork versions come up most. The rolls are made to order and can be customised, then crisped in the oven so they arrive warm and crunchy. The chilli runs mild, so ask if you want more kick.

Rolls are only part of the story. We hear the schnitzel roll gets plenty of love, with juicy chicken and fresh salad, and the egg and bacon roll has its fans too. On the bread side, the loaves are baked fresh, and one regular told us the plain white, Vienna, wholemeal and multigrain are made without preservatives. There are also pies and sausage rolls, with a curry pie a favourite for lunch. For something sweet, people talk about the chocolate eclairs with real cream, the custard tarts, apple cakes and donuts.

The people behind the counter are a big part of why locals keep coming back. Service is described as warm and genuinely friendly, and there's a loyal crowd from the neighbourhood who treat it as their regular. One local mentioned that the owner often slips a small donut into the bag as an extra, which tells you a lot about the place. Prices are considered fair for the generous portions, and there's a mix of takeaway, dine-in and delivery if you'd rather not leave the house. Coffee and hot chocolate are available too, and bringing your own reusable cup is welcome.

Getting there is easy, with free street parking and a free car park, plus a wheelchair-accessible entrance and car park. Cards and mobile payments are accepted, though one local suggests cash is appreciated. Check the hours before you head in, as the weekend schedule runs shorter than weekdays and the shop is closed one day of the week.